Published:
December 21, 2022
Ahhh…winter. Cozy nights by the fire. Beautiful snow-covered trees. Holiday fun. And…
Rough, dry skin. Chapped lips. What? Don’t let common winter skin issues keep you from looking and feeling your best. Learn how to protect your skin and enjoy the most wonderful time of the year!
Why Winter is Hard on Your Skin
It’s all about moisture. Because winter’s cold air contains less of it, your skin has to work harder to maintain its elasticity. Without proper care, skin can become dry and itchy, and in some cases, even crack and bleed. Dry skin also makes fine lines and wrinkles more noticeable.
It’s important to not follow the same skin care routine year-round. Keep your skin its healthiest over the winter months with these tips.
Dress for the Weather
The goal for cold weather dressing? Place a barrier between your skin and the elements. Coats, gloves, scarves, earmuffs. While you can’t cover all of your skin, try to protect as much as possible. And make sure your outerwear is made of fabric that doesn’t irritate your skin.
Lip Balm: Don’t Leave Home Without It
There’s nothing worse than the feeling of dry, chapped lips and no lip balm in your purse or pocket. A stick of lip balm is a quick, inexpensive way to get nearly instant relief. Stock up the whole family and you’re ready to take on the season. Choose a lip balm that feels good on your lips and is occlusive (creates a barrier to trap moisture). Petrolatum based is good. I personally recommend the CeraVe Healing Ointment which not only contains petrolatum, or petroleum jelly, but also hyaluronic acid and ceramides and doesn’t leave skin feeling greasy.
Watch Your Time and Temperature in the Shower
Although a long, hot shower or bath may feel great after you come in from the cold, your skin would disagree. Hot water can be irritating and lengthy time in water can create additional dryness. Aim for short, lukewarm showers and then curl up in a nice, warm blanket and relax. And close the bathroom door to keep in as much moisture as possible.
Speaking of the Shower…Use Gentle Cleansers
Besides keeping your showers short, bathe with products that are gentle on the skin, fragrance free, and have added moisturizing ingredients. Gentle exfoliation is ok a few times a week and sugar scrubs are less harsh than most scrubs. I recommend using a netted bath pouf with a gentle body wash to keep skin healthy.
After-Shower Moisturizing
Don’t leave the bathroom quite yet. Towel off (gently blotting) and apply moisturizer when skin is damp. Use a rich cream, oil-based moisturizer, or occlusive product, rather than lotions which are less effective in keeping moisture sealed in and your skin soft. Another personal favorite is AmLactin Daily Moisturizer. This contains lactic acid which is gentle add hydrates skin.
Sunscreen Isn’t Just for Summer
Sunscreen should be used year round. Just because it’s not sunny and hot outside doesn’t mean the UVA (aging rays) of the sun aren’t penetrating through clouds and windows. SPF of 30 is recommended for daily use. The best SPF is one you’re going to wear!
Stay Hydrated
You probably associate hydration with the hot, humid days of summer. But like sunblock, drinking enough water is important in all seasons. Proper hydration is important for overall health and keeps your skin moist on the inside. Everyone should drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water daily.
Consider a Humidifier
Is the air in your home especially dry? If so, a humidifier can be a good investment to help keep your skin supple. The added moisture in the air can also make your home feel warmer and ease cold and allergy symptoms.
Extra Measures for Skin Care
Even with everything you do to protect your skin, the sun’s damaging rays, free radicals, pollutants and more take a toll. The team at Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health Cosmetic Services can help you achieve a more youthful appearance with skin treatments that:
- Diminish discolorations
- Remove unwanted hair
- Stimulate collagen production
- Reduce fine lines and wrinkles